Untraceable by S.R. Johannes

by:  S.R. Johannes
published by:  Coleman and Stott
publish date:  November 29, 2011

16 year old Grace has lived in the Smokies all her life, patrolling with her forest ranger father who taught her about wildlife, tracking, and wilderness survival.

When her dad goes missing on a routine patrol, Grace refuses to believe he’s dead and fights the town authorities, tribal officials, and nature to find him.

One day, while out tracking clues, Grace is rescued from danger by Mo, a hot guy with an intoxicating accent and a secret. As her feelings between him and her ex-boyfriend get muddled, Grace travels deep into the wilderness to escape and find her father.

Along the way, Grace learns terrible secrets that sever relationships and lives. Soon she’s enmeshed in a web of conspiracy, deception, and murder. And it’s going to take a lot more than a compass and a motorcycle (named Lucifer) for this kick-butting heroine to save everything she loves.

This is one of the kinds of books I really like.  Grace is a strong female lead character, but she's still likeable.  She's strong through the wilderness skills her father taught her.  She's also strong in spirit and determination.  This book had good little tidbits of knowledge throughout that anyone, not just the young readers, should pick up.

The story was absorbing.  There were so many little subplots going on that the reader is hooked from the beginning.  It's a first rate thriller which is a little unique in YA, considering it's not paranormal or anything like that.  It's completely set in the real world.  I found that to be refreshing. 

I would definitely recommend this one.  However, if you're anti-love triangle...avoid it!!